SANTA FE, N.M. – Wind power, the largest source of U.S. renewable electricity generating capacity, now supplies more than 30 percent of the electricity in four states, Iowa, Kansas, Oklahoma, and South Dakota, after strong growth in 2017. Industry leaders released the news from the state capitol in New Mexico, a rising star for wind power. New Mexico added wind power capacity at a faster rate than any other state last year.

The rapid expansion of American wind power reflects its key role at the center of a transformation in the country’s electricity sector – bringing consumers more affordable, clean, and reliable energy while growing the economy. The industry’s latest trends and milestones from 2017 are detailed in the American Wind Energy Association (AWEA) U.S. Wind Industry Annual Market Report 2017 released today. According to the new report, more American homes and businesses use wind energy than ever before and the industry employs a record 105,500 men and women across all 50 states.

“American wind power reached new heights for energy generated and U.S. jobs in 2017. And don’t be surprised when the industry continues to break records,” said Tom Kiernan, CEO of AWEA. “Wind is competitively priced, reliable, and clean – a winning combination that’s creating economic growth in all 50 states.”